Kolkata, September 08, 2023: The distinguished Chairman & Principal Owner of Kolkata Thunderbolts, CA Pawan Kumar Patodia, has been conferred with the highly acclaimed ‘Mother Teresa International Award‘, in appreciation of his remarkable contributions in the realm of sports. The award ceremony took place on August 26th in Dubai, UAE, at the Conrad International Dubai, where Mr. Patodia was presented with this esteemed accolade by a distinguished 7-member committee comprising eminent intellectuals from across the country.
The ‘Mother Teresa International Award’ is a symbol of excellence and exceptional achievements in numerous fields in India as well as overseas. The award was instituted in 2001, in the memory and honour of the legendary Mother Teresa. Since its inception, the committee has commemorated the achievements of over 200 eminent personalities who have excelled across diverse fields, including Education, Culture, Music, Social Work, Sports, Industry, Media, Medicine and Politics. Mr Patodia’s steadfast commitment, visionary outlook and unwavering dedication to the advancement and evolution of sports have set him as a prominent and influential figure in the sports industry. As a passionate advocate for the development and progress in the sports domain, he has inspired the next generation of athletes in West Bengal, by providing them with the necessary infrastructure and platform required to upskill their potential. Mr. Patodia’s endeavours have taken him on a dynamic trajectory, shaping multiple facets of the sports landscape. From his philanthropic endeavours that reflect his deep compassion for community development, to his role as a driving force behind a sports entertainment production house, a dynamic sports league, and a prestigious sports franchise, he has extended his impact across borders and boundaries.
“I am extremely honoured and humbled to have received this prestigious recognition, and have my name be mentioned in the same breath as such esteemed world leaders and dignitaries. I convey my deepest sense of gratitude to the jury and committee, and swear an oath to work even harder towards our goal of uplifting the sporting ecosystem in our state and country,” remarked Mr. Patodia.
The Award traces its origin back to the year 2000-2001 when it was initially conferred upon the late Sri Jyoti Basu, former Chief Minister of West Bengal. It continued to recognise outstanding individuals with a global impact, such as Mrs. Hillary Clinton, Late Sri Rajiv Gandhi, Late Sri Manna Dey, Late Sri Rajesh Khanna, Smt. Sri Sudesh Bhosale, Sri Anup Jalota, Sheikh Hasina, Late Henry Sebastian D’Souza, John Felix Raj, Founder Vice-Chancellor, St. Xavier’s College and other dignitaries. Mr Patodia’s inclusion amongst such eminent personalities underscores his remarkable supremacy and consequential contributions to the field of sports. The distinguished panel featured the dynamic Usha Uthup, a Bollywood singer renowned for her enduring four-decade-long career, and cherished as a close confidante of Mother Teresa. Throughout the years, she maintained a profound connection with Mother Teresa, offering solace and support during both joyous and challenging moments. Usha Uthup stood as a witness to her passing and the subsequent canonization, exemplifying the depth of their bond. Taking center stage during the event, Usha Uthup was joined by the Dubai-based Bollywood luminary, Kalpana Iyer. Notably, many of Kalpana Iyer’s iconic songs have been graced by the soulful voice of Usha Uthup. In a mesmerizing display, these two remarkable artists painted a vivid memory by harmoniously blending their voices and graceful movements, a heartfelt tribute to their shared musical journey.
Corporate Comm India (CCI Newswire)
